A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ljubljana vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ljubljana or San Francisco?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ljubljana or San Francisco, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a under-rated, authentic, and historic capital city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Ljubljana and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Francisco than Ljubljana. San Francisco is bigger than Ljubljana, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Francisco is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Ljubljana is more popular for its historical sights. San Francisco is more touristy than Ljubljana and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. Ljubljana is well known for its small town atmosphere in a big city setting that's filled with culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

How is Ljubljana different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Francisco and Ljubljana. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

San Francisco is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit San Francisco from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Ljubljana offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Because the city is so compact, it's easy to see the notable landmarks with an easy walk. Famous landmarks include Ljubljana Castle, the Dragon Bridge, and the Franciscan Church.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Ljubljana is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in San Francisco, take in a show. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Ljubljana is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Ljubljana or San Francisco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Francisco is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Ljubljana. The city is surrounded by nature, so there's easy access to wild fruits and vegetables. It also has a lot of locally made honey and traditional, family run restaurants. Popular dishes include local sausage, pražen krompir (a potato side dish) and Slovenian style fried chicken.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Ljubljana and San Francisco.

If you're looking for night time activities Ljubljana has a few options to choose from. Given its small size, there are a surprising number of clubs and bars in town. The city has a vibrant energy in the evening, and it's easy to travel from venue to venue on foot.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep San Francisco active and fun. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Ljubljana is not a live music destination.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is a great coastal city for its beaches. However, Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Francisco. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Ljubljana is not a beach destination.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

Ljubljana is a great capital city for its historic old town charm. However, San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Ljubljana to see the historical old town. The old town is compact with wondering cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. At the heart of the city is Prešernov trg Square, which is where you'll find several notable buildings and nearby Central Market.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is renowned for hiking. However, Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Ljubljana is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

San Francisco is renowned for shopping. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Francisco. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Ljubljana is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has several shopping streets where you can find local and international fashion brands. Many people enjoy shopping for crystal and glass products in the city. Also check out the Central Market which has fresh local food products.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Ljubljana is not known for its family-friendly activities.

San Francisco is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Ljubljana is not the most family-friendly destination. The city has several good museums including the House of Experiments, which is only open on weekends. There are parks you can explore and it's fun to take the funicular to the castle. You can also take a boat ride which is fun for the whole family.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Couples?

San Francisco is a great coastal city for romance. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its romantic activities.

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Ljubljana makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's one of the more under-rated cities in Europe, but there are a number of romantic activities that you can enjoy here. Explore the old town, wander through the botanical gardens, or take a boat ride along the river. All make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Ljubljana and San Francisco are superb places to visit.

Ljubljana is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Although its not as popular as many of the more well known cities, this is an affordable option that is great for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Francisco is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is a great coastal city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for students.

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Ljubljana is a good capital city to visit for students. If you're looking for a unique study abroad opportunity, the University of Ljubljana offers an excellent academic experience in a a lively small city with easy access to nature.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Francisco is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ljubljana is not as popular, but is still a nice capital city for its public transit.

San Francisco has a great public transit system. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Ljubljana has a few public transit options. There is a city bus system.

Is Ljubljana or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Ljubljana and San Francisco are superb when it comes to walkability.

Ljubljana is very walkable. It is compact and easy to explore on foot.

San Francisco is a very walkable capital city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

For even more information, also check out Is Ljubljana Worth Visiting? and Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Ljubljana?

How long in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

Both Ljubljana and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Ljubljana. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ljubljana, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

Families should spend more time in San Francisco than Ljubljana. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Francisco, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in San Francisco than Ljubljana. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Francisco that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Ljubljana if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in San Francisco.

One day in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Ljubljana. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ljubljana. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic destination of Ljubljana. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This capital city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Ljubljana or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the capital city of Ljubljana. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ljubljana, The Best 10-Day Tours from Ljubljana, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ljubljana and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco is more expensive. And not only is Ljubljana much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ljubljana is in Europe and San Francisco is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Ljubljana would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ljubljana and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in San Francisco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Francisco than you might in Ljubljana.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ljubljana Expensive? and Is San Francisco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ljubljana or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ljubljana. When comparing the sizes of Ljubljana and San Francisco, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Ljubljana or San Francisco?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ljubljana or San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Ljubljana are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Ljubljana because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In July, Ljubljana is generally a little warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Ljubljana average around 22°C (72°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Ljubljana. In July, Ljubljana usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Ljubljana gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ljubljana or San Francisco in the Autumn?

Both San Francisco and Ljubljana during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ljubljana this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Ljubljana is cooler than San Francisco in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ljubljana averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ljubljana. Ljubljana usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Ljubljana gets 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ljubljana or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ljubljana and San Francisco. Many travelers come to Ljubljana for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ljubljana. In the winter, Ljubljana is much colder than San Francisco. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ljubljana in January average around 1°C (34°F), and San Francisco averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Ljubljana usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Ljubljana gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ljubljana or San Francisco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ljubljana as well as San Francisco. Many visitors come to Ljubljana in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Francisco for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Ljubljana is generally cooler than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Ljubljana average around 12°C (54°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Ljubljana receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ljubljana usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Ljubljana gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Ljubljana